U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation Freedom 250

The U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) Freedom 250 Special Edition is a funding initiative offered through the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) of the U.S. Department of State. In recognition of two key milestones—the 250th anniversary of American independence and the 25th anniversary of the AFCP—this 2026 grant cycle highlights the global impact of American values and heritage. The AFCP aims to support projects that preserve cultural heritage abroad while showcasing the United States’ commitment to freedom, democracy, and cultural diplomacy. Administered by ECA’s Cultural Heritage Center (CHC), the program encourages collaborative efforts between American and international experts, promoting technical exchange and historical dialogue. The core objectives of the Freedom 250 edition are to fund preservation efforts that link foreign cultural heritage with American history, influence, or values. Projects may focus on objects or sites associated with Americans, places excavated by American archaeologists, and locations commemorating U.S. contributions to global events. Additional emphasis is placed on scientific innovation, intellectual history, and the cultural ties of diaspora communities. Projects reflecting American artistic influence or those tied to movements inspired by U.S. democratic ideals are also encouraged. Eligible activities include conservation, restoration, documentation, inventory creation, stabilization, and preventive conservation. Applications are open to a wide range of organizations, including foreign and U.S.-based institutions of higher education, foreign and domestic NGOs, public international organizations, and governmental institutions. Applicants are not required to provide cost-sharing, but those who do must adhere to standard reporting and audit requirements per 2 CFR 200. All applicants must obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and register with SAM.gov prior to submitting proposals. Participation is limited to countries with which the United States maintains diplomatic relations. The total available funding for the 2026 cycle is $6 million, with individual awards ranging from $25,000 to $250,000. The Department anticipates making 25 to 35 awards, with a performance period of 12 to 60 months. Projects are expected to begin by September 1, 2026. Awards may be issued as grants, fixed amount awards (FAA), or cooperative agreements, all of which may involve substantial involvement by the Department of State or participating embassies. To apply, organizations must submit a complete application package directly to the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate. Embassies handle their own deadlines and processes, and applicants are encouraged to contact them directly for specific instructions. The full application must include standard federal forms (e.g., SF-424, SF-424A), a 20-page proposal narrative detailing project goals, personnel, cultural significance, and alignment with Freedom 250 themes, as well as a budget narrative, visual documentation, and letters of support as needed. A project maintenance plan, public outreach plan, and data access strategy must also be included. Proposals will be evaluated on several criteria, including clarity and feasibility of activities, cultural importance, sustainability, community engagement, and data sharing plans. The Freedom 250 narrative and embassy-submitted rationale carry substantial weight. Successful applicants will receive official award notices and will be subject to reporting and performance monitoring. While awards may be renewed on a non-competitive basis, there is no guarantee of continued funding. All projects must comply with federal anti-discrimination and anti-trafficking laws and adhere to branding and reporting guidelines established by the Department of State.

Strong Freedom 250 alignment, maintenance planning, and public outreach increase competitiveness; embassy support and cultural relevance matter most.